Check Her Out: Jessica Banish with Three Keys Distillery!

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What exactly is your business?  Three Keys Distillery is building a craft spirits destination poised to be a part of the Kentucky Craft Bourbon Trail for years to come.

How did you come up with your business idea?  Three Keys was born from a desire to preserve our beloved J.W. Kite store, located on our property in Burlington, KY.  The store is on the National Register of Historic Places, and we knew we wanted to bring it “back to life” and share it within a rich part of Kentucky history.  What’s more Kentucky than bourbon?

How did you find out about Aviatra?  When my husband and I began talking about the idea of starting a business, many people suggested Aviatra/ Bad Girl Ventures, since we were set on starting a Woman-Owned business.

What is your inspiration?  My inspiration is to contribute to Kentucky history in a way that allows my three sons to carry on the legacy, should they choose to do so.  In fact, that is how Three Keys was named!  I wrote “3 KY sons” on a napkin, and we immediately knew that Three Keys was the name of our business.

What has been your biggest accomplishment with your business so far?  Our biggest accomplishment has been our commitment to the Kentucky Distillers’ Association to join the Craft Bourbon Trail.

What was the most valuable thing you’ve gained from your experience with Aviatra? So far, the network is absolutely amazing. The resources available, and the generosity of all the Aviatra alumni that are still involved is astonishing!  These ladies are 100% solid gold!!

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced while working to start your business?  The spirits industry is most challenging in the zoning and permit areas.  This continues to be our biggest obstacle.

Where do you hope to be in 5 years? In 5 years, I hope to be a part of the Kentucky Craft Bourbon Trail, as well as the Northern Kentucky B-Line, with a wonderful Historic Store as our welcome center.

Any advice for future Aviatras? My advice is DO IT!!!  Too many times people are afraid to jump into the unknown. With the resources available through Aviatra, IT IS POSSIBLE!!!  Chase your dream, you are the only one holding you back.